'Flying Fortress' lands in Montgomery

The B-17G bomber Aluminum Overcast gives flights at Dannelly Field in Montgomery, Ala., on Thursday October 12, 2017. The B-17 will give tours and flights on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For information go to B17.org.

Mickey Welsh / Advertiser

The Experimental Aircraft Association brought its fully restored, vintage B-17 bomber to Dannelly Field in Montgomery on Thursday.

The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress is a World War II bomber that was used primarily in Europe. B-17s from the Eighth Air Force participated in countless missions from bases in England, often lasting for more than eight hours, and struck at targets deep within enemy territory. Because of their long-range capability, formations of B-17s often flew into battle with no fighter escort, relying on their own defensive capabilities to insure a successful mission.

The B-17G bomber Aluminum Overcast arrives and gives media orientation flights at Montgomery Aviation at the airport in Montgomery, Ala., on Thursday October 12, 2017. The B-17 will give tours and flights on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For information go to B17.org.

Mickey Welsh / Advertiser

At one time, more than 1,000 B-17s could be assembled for mass combat missions. Today, fewer than 100 B-17 airframes exist, and fewer still are in airworthy condition. Less than 15 of Boeing's famous bombers can still take to the air.

Source: The Experimental Aircraft Association

Annette Eddings and her son Billy Eddings take a flight on the B-17G bomber Aluminum Overcast from ...more

Annette Eddings and her son Billy Eddings take a flight on the B-17G bomber Aluminum Overcast from Montgomery Aviation at the airport in Montgomery, Ala., on Thursday October 12, 2017. The B-17 will give tours and flights on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For information go to B17.org. Annette Eddings was a riveter on WWII era bombers.

Mickey Welsh / Advertiser

WANT TO GO?

Ground tours of the B-17 will be available to the public Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Montgomery Regional Airport. For tour information, visit http://b17.org or call 800-359-6217.